What are the causes of oil seal leakage?
3 Answers
The causes of oil seal leakage are: 1. Natural aging of the oil seal, resulting in reduced sealing capability; 2. Excessive wear or deformation of the bearing; 3. Certain wear occurring during the use of the oil seal; 4. Improper installation of the oil seal; 5. Excessive use of lubricant near the oil seal or clogging of the vent hole; 6. The oil seal model used does not match the engine. The oil seal, also known as the shaft seal, is a component in machinery used to prevent fluid from leaking at joints. Sealing elements used for static and dynamic sealing are called seals. The representative form of an oil seal is the TC oil seal, which is a double-lip oil seal fully covered with rubber and equipped with a self-tightening spring. Generally, when referring to oil seals, it often means this type of TC skeleton oil seal.
I've seen quite a few friends' cars with oil seal leaks. The most common cause is aging oil seals. After prolonged use, the rubber material wears out and deteriorates, reducing sealing effectiveness and causing leaks. Another reason is improper installation, like when the mechanic didn't tighten it properly during the last maintenance, leading to oil seepage. Excessive oil pressure can also deform the seals, especially noticeable during high-speed driving. Using poor-quality or substandard engine oil can corrode sealing surfaces and accelerate leaks. Regularly inspect the undercarriage for oil stains or spots—if found, take it to a professional shop promptly. Don't wait until engine damage occurs to regret it; safety comes first. Routine maintenance is key, so choose quality oil and change it regularly.
There are many reasons for oil seal leakage, which I often encounter when repairing my own car. Sometimes it's due to the material quality of the oil seal itself, such as cheap products being unable to withstand high temperatures, leading to oil leakage. If the installation is not precise and the oil seal is misaligned, oil will seep out. Excessive oil temperature can soften the sealing compound, greatly increasing the risk of leakage. Additionally, long-term vibration or collision damage can cause the oil seal to crack. Daily inspection is simple—just look under the car for any oil stains around the oil seal area. It's recommended to use high-quality engine oil and change it regularly to protect the oil seal. If oil leakage is detected, address it promptly to avoid greater damage.
